Method and device for transporting toy moving object between dislocated slot track segments

ABSTRACT

A motor driven transporter for transporting a moving toy object over an interruption in a slot track system where the interruption is between an incoming track segment and an outgoing track segment. The transporter includes a dock having a holding member for holding the toy object on a track surface of the dock and a restraining member for restraining the toy object from moving forward and backward on the dock, and a motor for moving the dock linearly or through an arc of up to 180° between the incoming track segment and the outgoing track segment.

This non-provisional application is a continuation of International Application No PCT/CN2007/002552, which was filed on 23 Aug. 2007, and which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/827,889, which was filed on 3 Oct. 2006, and which are both herein incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to slot track system for playing a plurality of toy moving objects. Particularly, it relates to a method and motor-driving device for transporting a moving toy object between separated or dislocated slot track segments.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Playing a moving toy object (such as a car) along a slot track system is very popular among children, particularly the electricity-driven systems. Conventionally, the slot track system is largely continuous with few or no interruptions/gaps. There are devices or mechanisms known in the art that are built in the track system to help the moving object go over interruptions or gaps in the track but they are driven by momentum or gravity. Due to their reliance on gravity or momentum, these devices or mechanisms are known to have stability and positioning problems, causing inconsistent, non-smooth operation and design limitation, and eventually player's frustrations. The movement by momentum and/or gravitational force can in general only drive the toy object in horizontal or slightly tilt up orientation and they cannot bring an object to run on a curve pathway or with rotations. Nonetheless, the track system with a variety of interruptions is more interesting and increases play values. Thus, there is a need for designing a new type of devices and mechanisms that do not rely on gravity or momentum and can smoothly and reliably transport moving toy objects over greater and different interruptions built-in the track system to allow endless possibilities of interesting and exotic design of the track system.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

As an object of the present invention, there is provided a transporting device (transporter) driven either by an electric motor or manually by the player's hand or foot, which can provide smooth operation in transporting moving toy objects cross interruptions and gaps built-in the track system. The transporter of the present invention in general comprises a dock, a motor and a support structure. Of course, if it is driven manually, the motor may be replaced by a handle or foot pad linked to a mechanic transmission system through which the manpower may be transmitted to move the dock. The following disclosure however will focus the motor driven version and it is contemplated that based on the motor version, a corresponding manual version can be designed by people of ordinary skill in the art.

The transporter according to the present invention takes or loads the moving object on the dock upon its arrival at an end of a first segment (or the incoming segment); a mechanism is triggered to start a sequence of circuit setting which allows a series of motion of the dock to carry the toy object from the first segment (incoming segment) across the interruption or gap to a second segment (or the outgoing segment) which is not in connection or continuity with the first segment. During this pathway, the toy object can be locked firmly to stay on the dock by a Stopper & Locking device. When the dock reaches the second segment, the stopper will be released to let the toy object move away. The dock will then be return to the first segment and complete one cycle of movement.

The transporters reduce or eliminate the stability problems and their design and positioning is not limited or restricted due to the difficulties usually associated with the application of gravity or momentum forces. With one or more such transporting devices designed and integrated in a slot track system, which provide continuity between various dislocated track segments, a vast variety of interesting slot track system can be designed and configured where the continuity of the track may be interrupted in a number of interesting ways, for example, such as dislocated vertically or horizontally, or by a gap, or due to the next slot segment being located on the opposite side surface of the track segment (FIG. 72). The device may optionally be decorated with various ornaments, audio elements and/or lighting visual elements (such as colorful LEDs). The transporting process or moving action may optionally be accompanied with music, lighting and/or rotating of the object.

In the following as well as in the enclosed drawings, particular embodiments of the transporter according to the present invention are present for illustration of, but not as limitation to, the inventive concept of the present invention. Particularly, a transporter referred to as “180 Elevator” is described as an example of providing continuity between track segments dislocated vertically; a transporter referred to as “Cross Flyer” is described as an example of providing continuity between track segments dislocated horizontally; a transporter referred to as “Air Runner” is described as an example of providing continuity between track segments dislocated due to a gap; and a transporter referred to as “Electric Tower” is described as an example of providing continuity between track slots located on opposite side surfaces of the same track segment. Various other transporters, based on the same inventive concept of the present invention, may come readily to the mind of people with ordinary skill in the art and indeed the present invention contemplates any motorized and man-powered transporter that provides continuity for toy object moving along a slot track system built with various dislocated track segments for increasing the play value and flexibility in building a customerized slot track system.

Furthermore, in another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a “Common Adjuster” which serves as an adapter for fitting the various transporter with the normal track segment allows the toy object moving into the transporter from the normal track segment at one end/incoming terminal and then moving out of the transporter into the normal track segment at the other end/outgoing terminal of the interruption. The common adjuster provides continuity of the tracking slot and electric power line between various irregular shape transporters and regular shaped normal track segments at the terminals. The adjuster provides convenient or flexible connection between the transporter and the end of a dislocated track segment. The adjuster is also a cost-saving method, because normal wear and tear occurs mostly in the intersection area between the transporter and the normal track segment and it is much less expensive to replace a smaller adjuster which sits between the transporter and the track segment than the transporter or the much larger normal track segment. The entrance and exit ends of the common adjuster have different configurations and they can be positioned to connect with either incoming or outgoing terminal of the dock or supporter. The entrance-exit orientation can be predetermined in the layout setting so that common adjusters with different entrance-exit orientations are available to fit the transporter in various designs of slot track systems of different styles.

The various features of novelty which characterize the invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages, and specific objects attained by its use, reference should be made to the drawings and the following description in which there are illustrated and described preferred embodiments of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

A total of 77 drawings are included herewith for providing details of some particular embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a “180-Elevator” transporter according to a first embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 2 is a common adjuster of the transporter of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a dock of the transporter of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the transporter of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 5( a)-5(c) are different views of the transporter of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a “Cross Flyer” transporter according to a second embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the “Cross Flyer” transporter;

FIG. 7 a is a perspective view of the “Cross Flyer” transporter of FIG. 7 with the dock being rotated;

FIG. 8 is a 2-lane system connection of the “Cross Flyer” transporter;

FIG. 9 is a 1-lane system connection of the “Cross Flyer” transporter;

FIG. 9 a is another 1-lane system connection of the “Cross Flyer” transporter;

FIG. 10 is a side view of an “Electric Tower” transporter according to a third embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an “Air Runner” transporter according to a fourth embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the transporter of FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the “Electric Tower” transporter;

FIG. 14 is another perspective view of the transporter of FIG. 11;

FIGS. 15-17 are motor activation circuits of the transporters disclosed in the present application;

FIGS. 18 and 19 are cutaway views of the transporter of FIG. 11;

FIGS. 20, 21 and 22 are illustrative diagrams showing the operation of the stopper and locking device;

FIG. 23 shows the connection between a conventional track segment and a single lane straight track of the dock of a “180-Elevator” transporter;

FIGS. 24-26 are top perspective views of a “180-Elevator” transporter with different supporting structures;

FIGS. 27 and 28 are bottom perspective views of the “180-Elevator” transporter;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a “180-Elevator” transporter with a different supporting structure;

FIG. 30 is an exploded view of the transporter of FIG. 29;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the “180-Elevator” transporter in a sideway position;

FIG. 32 is an exploded view of the “180-Elevator” transporter;

FIGS. 33 and 34 are perspective views of two different embodiments of the “Cross Flyer” transporter;

FIG. 35 is a bottom perspective view of the “Cross Flyer” transporter;

FIGS. 36-39 are different perspective views of the “Cross Flyer” transporter;

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the “Cross Flyer” transporter;

FIGS. 41 and 42 are exploded views of the “Cross Flyer” transporter of FIG. 40;

FIG. 43 is a top plan view of the “Cross Flyer” transporter of FIG. 40;

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of a common adjuster of the “Cross Flyer” transporter;

FIG. 45 is a perspective view of the “Air Runner” transporter;

FIG. 46 is an exploded view of a dock of the “Air Runner” transporter;

FIG. 47 is an enlarged view of a motor housing of the “Air Runner” transporter;

FIGS. 48-50 show the dock of the “Air Runner” transporter at different positions;

FIG. 50 a shows the arm of the “Air Runner” transporter with a LED;

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of the “Air Runner” transporter at a different orientation relative to the ground;

FIG. 52 is a perspective view of the “Air Runner” transporter;

FIG. 53 is an exploded view of the “Air Runner” transporter of FIG. 52;

FIGS. 54-56 are perspective views showing a common adjuster of the “Air Runner” transporter and its connection with a conventional track segment;

FIG. 57 is a different perspective view of the “Electric Tower” transporter of FIG. 10;

FIG. 58 is an enlarged view of the dock of the “Electric Tower” transporter;

FIG. 59 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the “Electric Tower” transporter;

FIG. 60 is an exploded view of the “Electric Tower” transporter of FIG. 59;

FIGS. 61-63 show the dock of the “Electric Tower” transporter at different positions;

FIGS. 64-66 are perspective views showing a common adjuster of the “Electric Tower” transporter and its connection with a conventional track segment;

FIG. 67 is a top plan view of the connection of the common adjuster and the “180-Elevator” transporter;

FIG. 68 is a bottom perspective view of the connection of the common adjuster and the “Electric Tower” transporter;

FIG. 69 is a top perspective view of a common adjuster;

FIG. 70 is a bottom perspective view of the common adjuster of FIG. 69;

FIG. 71 is an exploded view of the common adjuster of FIG. 69;

FIG. 72 is a fully assembled slot track including an “Air Runner” transporter of the present application;

FIGS. 73( a) to 73(g) show the operating sequence of the “180-Elevator” transporter;

FIGS. 74( a) to 74(f) show the operating sequence of the “Air Runner” transporter;

FIGS. 75( a) to 75(d) show the operating sequence of the “Cross Flyer” transporter;

FIGS. 76( a) to 76(f) show the operating sequence of the “Electric Tower” transporter; and

FIGS. 77( a) and 77(b) show the snap fitting of a conventional track segment to a transporter of the present application.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PARTICULAR EMBODIMENTS 180-Elevator

Referring to FIGS. 1-5, the 180-Elevator is a transporter 10 that moves a toy object 12 between two slot track segments 14, 16 dislocated vertically or perpendicularly relative to the surface plane of the track segments. Of course, the surface plane can be positioned at an arbitrary degree relative to the horizontal line, preferably, at 0° or 90°. The Elevator comprises two support structures 18, 20 sustaining the two dislocated track segments/terminals 14, 16, a dock 22 for carrying the toy object 12 (a car, for example, in FIG. 73), a rack and pinion power transmission located in each support structure, a motor 26, as shown in FIG. 30, driving one or both pinions 24 are preferably located in the dock 22 (FIG. 30). On a first surface 30 of the dock located a slot 32 and two metal strips 34. The dock 22 located between the two support structures 18, 20, preferably sustained on a longitude axis (or shaft) into each end of which the pinions are installed. As the pinion 24 is movably engaged with rack 25 fixed in the supporting structure 18, 20, at the turning of the pinion, the dock 22 moves linearly up and down along rack 25 and guide slot 28, depending on the turning direction of the pinion. Of course, other suitable power transmission mechanisms may also be used and provide satisfactory results. Rack 25—a straight bar with teeth on the surfaces; while pinion 24 is something like a gear with teeth. Placing the pinion 24 on the rack 25, applying a force on the pinion could drive it moving up or down step by step. This is so-called a rack and pinion system.

During the transporting process, the moving toy object 12 would firstly run to the single lane straight track 14 (incoming track) which is connected to the incoming terminal of dock 22 and then rested at a proper position on the dock 22 by a stopper or without a stopper depending on the orientation of the dock 22 in a particular embodiment of track layout. A common adjuster 46 on the support structure 18, 20 at the incoming end and outgoing end provides continuity of the track slot and power line between the normal track segment and the single lane straight track of the dock 22 (FIGS. 2 and 23). The moving object 12, by his weight or other means, presses on a trigger A on the dock surface 30 while it stopped there and starts the motor 26 which, through pinion and rack power transmission or other methods, lowers the dock 22 carrying the toy object 12 from a first position (for example a higher position) to a second position (for example a lower position). Button B1 is used to activate the motor 26 to move the dock 22 back to the original position. Optionally, the dock 22 with the toy object 12 may rotate an arbitrary degree, either before, during or after the dock 22 is moved from the first position to the second position. In a preferred embodiment, the rotation happens at the same time as the dock 22 moves from the first position to the second position and the degree of the rotation is 180°. If the rotation is 180°, the dock 22 and the toy object 12 will be turned up-side-down and the toy object 12 will be running away in an upside down orientation onto the track segment 16 at the outgoing end (fitted with a common adjuster 46). Obviously, the outgoing track segment 16 must be facing a direction opposite to the one the incoming track segment 14 is facing if the rotation is 180°. In practice, the rotation may be in an arbitrary degree and the outgoing track segment 16 just need to adjust its orientation accordingly to accommodate the orientation of the dock 22 after the rotation. Rotation is preferably driven by the same motor 26 with a proper gear transmission system. The toy object 12 may be constrained to the dock 22 during its rotation by mechanic or magnetic means, which is within ordinary skill of the people in the art. As a preferred example, the anti-gravity T-slot 32 is convenient, simple mechanical method for constrains the toy object 12. The moving object 12 with a guide pin under the chassis is in T-shape, a protruded part in the lower end of the guide pin, which could be held by a slot on the dock surface in reversal T-shape. As the width of the slot 32 is smaller than the diameter of the T-shape guide pin so that the moving object 12 would not fall off the dock 22 during the rotation and a direction that opposite to upright.

Combining electric circuit and mechanical designs, the 180 Elevator could perform smooth and accurate motion in a long moving path without hesitation. The stability is very high compared with previous design in slot racing set which uses 2 deadweights as a balance force to allow the moving track back to original position after performing the transport action. In addition, the performance, downward moving together with rotation, is an exemplary new design and the visual effect is much stronger than the previous design with up and down action only. Other combination of concurrent movements of the dock 22 can also be implemented. With the motor 26 driving and securing the movement of the dock 22, the elevator could be placed vertically or horizontally or at arbitrary angle according to the user's preference, thereby increasing flexibility of the layout designing. A stopper and locking device (described in below) is built in the dock 22 so that it could guide and hold the moving object 12 at the exact position until it reaches the outgoing track segment 16.

FIGS. 23-32 are drawings providing more details and variations for implementing the 180-Elevator. FIG. 23 shows the connection between the conventional track segment and the single lane straight track of the dock 22 of the 180-Elevator transporter 10. FIGS. 24-26 are top perspective views of the 180-Elevator transporter 10 with different supporting structures. FIGS. 27 and 28 are bottom perspective views of the 180-Elevator transporter 10. FIG. 29 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the 180-Elevator transporter 10 with a different supporting structure. FIG. 30 is an exploded view of the transporter of FIG. 29. FIGS. 31 and 32 are perspective views of two different embodiments of the 180-Elevator transporter 10.

FIGS. 73( a) to 73(g) show an operating sequence of the 180-Elevator transporter 10.

For illustration purposes, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “top”, “bottom”, “forward”, “backward” appeared herein relate to the invention as it is oriented in the drawings. It is understood that the invention may assume various positions, except where expressly specified to the contrary.

Cross Flyer

Referring to FIGS. 6-9, the Cross Flyer is a transporter 110 that moves the toy object 12 between two slot track segments 114, 116 dislocated horizontally or in parallel with the surface plane of the track segment, which of course can be at an arbitrary angle relative to the horizontal line (i.e., within the sea surface plane).

The Cross Flyer transporter 110 comprises a dock 122 and support structure 118. In this particular embodiment of a Cross Flyer, the support structure 118 has a frame panel 119 supported by three legs 120, preferably, adjustable legs. The frame 119 defines a square opening to accommodate the dock 122 (in other words, the dock 122 is deposited in the opening), which itself in this embodiment is a square-shaped frame having four sides. At approximately the middle points of two opposite sides of the dock 122, there is a shaft and bearing type of connection 136 between dock 122 and supporting structure 118 so that dock 122 can rotate along an actual or imaginary axis passing through the two points connecting to the support structure 118. On each of the other two opposite sides of the dock 122, there is a single-lane straight track docking position 150, 152 to receive a toy object 12. Similarly as in the 180 Elevator, there are Common Adjusters 146 on the support structure 118 for providing continuities in terms of slot tracking and power supplying line between the dock 122 and the normal track segment (at both incoming end and outgoing end).

During the transport by the Cross Flyer, from the incoming track segment the moving toy object 12, or optionally two moving toy objects 12 each running along a single lane track segment at the same time, will enter a single-lane straight track docking position 150, 152 on one side of the dock 122 and either held in a proper position through a locking mechanical gate built-in under the slot on the dock surface or stay on the dock surface by a mechanic means such as, for example, the anti-gravity T-slot 132. While the toy object 12 is entering onto the dock 122, it will press on a button A built on the square frame 119 and trigger a motor 126 (FIG. 41) to rotate the dock frame 180 degree. As the result of rotation, not only will the toy object 12 move to the opposite side of the support structure and align with the outgoing track segment but also change from the up right orientation to the upside down orientation. Of course, in this particular embodiment, the incoming and outgoing track segments must facing towards opposite directions. Once completing the 180° rotation and having the toy object 12 aligned well with the Common Adjuster 146 at the outgoing side, the dock 122 would press down another mechanical button B2 to release the toy object 12 if it is held by locking mechanical gate. It could start to move to another 180 degree if another moving toy object 12 arrives to the right position to trigger the button for motion. In other words, in one complete cycle of the dock 122 (rotating 180°) because the dock 122 has 2 single lane docking positions, it can transport two toy objects 12 from the incoming track segment to the outgoing track segment. Similar to the 180 Elevator, the horizontal frame 119 of the support structure 118 may be positioned at an arbitrary angle to the horizontal line. As in all the transporters, the Common Adjusters 146 are used to achieve a convenient fitting between the dock 122 of the transport and the normal track segments at both ends of the dislocated track.

As illustrated in FIGS. 8, 9 and 9 a, the Cross Flyer could have different connecting configurations. Cross-flyer is available to connect with either one of the individual lane track segment or both individual lane track segment by the design of the track construction. If the cross-flyer is connected with one individual lane then only one moving object 12 would enter and sit securely on the dock 122 for the rotation of the dock frame. However, player could connect the cross-flyer with the two separated individual lane track segments so that two moving objects 12 could arrive and land on the dock frame and thus trigger the rotation. It means both moving objects 12 could be held and carried from incoming end to the outgoing end of track segments at the same time. This could give a new challenge to players, as the movement of the dock platform could be triggered by either moving object 12 thus the opponent player would be failed to perform if one player could well control and catch up the right moment to start off the movement. This feature could greatly enhance the interaction between players. For example, the skillful player could win the game by starting off the action of movement platform so that another player's moving object might be falling off from the dock frame as the dock 122 may have already left the terminal.

FIGS. 33-44 are drawings providing more details and variations for implementing Cross Flyer. FIGS. 33 and 34 are perspective views of two different embodiments of the Cross Flyer transporter 110. FIG. 35 is a bottom perspective view of the Cross Flyer transporter 100. FIGS. 36-39 are perspective views of the Cross Flyer transporter 110. FIG. 40 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the “Cross Flyer” transporter. FIGS. 41 and 42 are exploded views of the “Cross Flyer” transporter of FIG. 40. FIG. 43 is a top plan view of the Cross Flyer transporter 110. FIG. 44 is a perspective view of the common adjuster 146 of the Cross Flyer transporter 110.

FIGS. 75( a) to 75(d) show an operating sequence of the Cross Flyer transporter 110.

Air Runner

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 14, the Air Runner is a transporter 210 that moves the toy object 12, through the air, between two normal slot track segments 214, 216 separated by a large gap.

The Air Runner transporter 210 comprises a dock 222, a movable arm 223 and a support structure 218. In a particular embodiment of an Air Runner, the dock 222 is supported on the tip of the arm 223, which is connected to a shaft fixed in the support structure 218. With the turning of the shaft, driven by a motor inside a motor housing 226 preferably located in the support structure 218, the arm 223 moves the dock 222 along an arch line in the air from the incoming track segment 214 to the outgoing track segment 216. At each end (i.e., the incoming end or outgoing end), the dock 222 align its own slot track with the Common Adjuster 246 which is connected with slot track on the normal track segment at both ends of the dislocated track, resulting continuity both in the tracking slot and power supply line. The dock 222 may have a convex track surface or platform as shown in the figures or other curved or flat surface as long as it does not interferes with the movement of a toy object entering the dock 222 from the incoming track segment 214 or leaving the dock 222 to the outgoing track segment 216. The support structure 218 may have one or more legs 210, preferably adjustable, standing on the ground. It may also use the incoming and outgoing track segments as sole or additional support (in addition to the dedicated supporting legs) to sustained it in the air.

In a particular embodiment, the transporting process starts when an moving toy object 12 passes through a common adjuster 246 from the incoming track segment 214, and then lands on the convex track platform of the dock 222, it presses a trigger A on the platform and thereby turns on the motor, which turns the shaft and moves the arm and dock 222 (carrying the toy object 12 thereon) from the incoming track segment 214 to reach another Common Adjuster 246 which is linked up with the outgoing track segment 214, where the toy object 12 carried on the dock 222 is released and moves away from the dock 222 to the outgoing track segment 216. Then the dock 222 is brought back by the arm 223 to its original position.

As this transporter 210 is driven by motor to secure the smoothness of movement, users are available to place it in horizontal or vertical position. A stopper & locking device 244, 245 (described in detail below) has been built-in under the slot on the dock surface so that the moving object 12 will not dislocate during the movement. The movement is driven by the electricity that provided by the main power supplier, the convex track would be back to its origin after the moving object 12 is left the convex track.

FIGS. 45-56 are drawings, providing more details and variations for implementing Air Runner. FIG. 45 is a perspective view of the Air Runner transporter 210 of FIG. 11. FIG. 46 is a perspective view of the dock 222 of the Air Runner transporter 210. FIG. 47 is an enlarged view of the pivot connection of the Air Runner transporter 210. FIGS. 48-50 show the dock 222 of the Air Runner transporter 210 at different positions. As shown in FIG. 50 a, LED lighting 248 may be provided on the arm 223 of the transporter. FIG. 51 is a perspective view of the Air Runner transporter 210 and track segments at a different orientation relative to the ground. FIG. 52 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the Air Runner transporter. FIG. 53 is an exploded view of the Air Runner transporter of FIG. 52. FIGS. 54-56 are perspective views showing the common adjuster 246 of the Air Runner transporter 210 and its connection with a conventional track segment.

FIG. 72 shows an assembled slot track system which includes an Air Runner transporter disclosed in the present application. FIGS. 74( a) to 74(f) show an operating sequence of the Air Runner transporter 210.

Electric Tower

Referring to FIGS. 10, 12 and 13, the Electric Tower 310 is a transporter that moves the toy object 12 from one side 314 (for example the upper side) of a track segment 315 to another side 316 (for example the lower side) of the same track segment 315 (which has tracking slots on two opposite sides), or vice versa, so that at the outgoing side the toy object 12 will not only be moving in an opposite direction but also in upside down orientation relative to its direction and orientation before being transported from the incoming side. The track segment 315 is preferably positioned horizontally to maximize the visual effect to the players, but it can be at an arbitrary angle with the horizontal plane.

The Electric Tower transporter 310 comprises a dock 322 and a support structure 318. In this particular embodiment of an Electric Tower, the dock 322 has a single lane slot track platform on one surface and is supported by and pivotally connected to the support structure 318 via an axis/shaft 336 which is across to the dock's track platform. The dock's track platform has an incoming end and outgoing end and of a generally triangle shape with the three points of the triangle being the incoming end, the outgoing end and the pivoting center where the shaft runs through. As the incoming end and the outgoing end have a generally equal distance to the pivotal center, by pivoting, the incoming end and the outgoing end of the dock 322 can trade their positions, albeit with the track platform facing an opposite direction. The dock's slot track platform is preferably curved for smooth moving of the toy object 12 between the dock 322 and incoming and outgoing track segments 314. The support structure 318 may have one or more legs, preferably adjustable, standing on the ground.

There are two Common Adjusters 346 built in at the supporter, one of them is linked with the end of the out-going track segment, whereas the other is linked with the end of the in-coming track segment. In operation, a moving toy object 12 lands on the track platform of the dock 322 from a Common Adjuster 346 linked with a normal incoming track segment, and moves from the incoming end of the dock 322 to the outgoing end where it presses a trigger A on the platform and thereby turns on the motor, which pivotally turns the dock 322 so that the incoming end of the dock 322 moves away from the terminal and the outgoing end of the dock 322 moves close to the terminal. Once the outgoing end of the track platform aligns with the Common Adjuster 346 linking with the outgoing track surface at the terminal, and a trigger B2 is activated, the toy object 12 leaves the dock 322 and moving onto the outgoing track surface 316 which faces the opposite direction to the incoming track surface 314. The dock 322 returns to the original position with the incoming end of the track platform aligning with the Common Adjuster 346 linking with the incoming track surface at the terminal and ready for transporting the next toy object 12.

Because it is driven by a motor, the moving action of the dock 322 is smooth and precise. Comparing with the transporter driven by momentum and gravity, it does not have any clearance problem due to the gravitation of different dead weights stored behind the moving curve track to balance the gravitational force for completion of movement. Furthermore, without relying on the gravity, the moving curve action can be performed either parallel or perpendicular to the floor, meaning a higher flexibility that allows players to better apply their imagination to build more unique and customizable layouts. A stopper and locking device 344, 345 (described in details below) has been introduced and it ensures the toy object 12 positioned on the dock 322 at a right location and constrained thereon during the pivoting movement of the dock 322.

FIGS. 57-66 are drawings providing more details and variations for implementing Electric Tower. FIG. 57 is another perspective view of the Electric Tower transporter 310 of FIG. 10. FIG. 58 is an enlarged view of the dock 322 of the Electric Tower transporter 310. Clips 333 may be provided on the dock 322 to hold the dock 322 in a predetermined position relative to the support structure 318. FIG. 59 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the “Electric Tower” transporter. FIG. 60 is an exploded view of the “Electric Tower” transporter of FIG. 59. FIGS. 61-63 show the dock 322 of the Electric Tower transporter 310 at different positions. FIGS. 64-66 are perspective views showing the common adjuster 346 of the Electric Tower transporter 310 and its connection with a track segment.

FIGS. 76( a) to 76(f) show an operating sequence of the Electric Tower transporter 310.

Common Adjuster (FIGS. 2, 3, 67-71)

Purpose—in order to increase the versatility of transporter 10, 110, 210, 310 in the present invention and easy integration with the existing features of the track system to form multiple layouts so as to allow different anti-gravity actions performed by the moving objects 12, an adjuster 46, 146, 246, 346 is commonly suitable for each of the motor-driven transporters of the present invention, which carry the moving object 12 to achieve a non-conventional locus of movement. With the presence of the common adjuster or adaptor, each of the motor-driven transporters is available to connect with traditional track sections like straight, curve, concave and convex tracks, traditional track features like 360 deg looping. Thus the play value of the entire system would be drastically increased as user could enjoy a variety of combinations with new tracks and track features and existing tracks. FIGS. 77( a) and (b) show the action of snap fitting between Common Adjuster 46 and a normal track segment 14, 16 in a transporter 10 (e.g. 180-Elevator).

There are 2 types of Common Adjuster, each type of it comprises of a hook 47, 147, 247, 347 and slot 49, 149, 249, 349, one type with the metal stripes 51 for the slot blunting at one end, protruding out at the other end namely, the male type, whereas another type with the metal stripes 51 for the slot blunting at both end namely, the female type. There is a plurality of ball-shaped metal contacts 53 built-in at the no-hook blunt end of each Common Adjuster (FIG. 69).

Methodology—typically, the common adapters when used are always applied in 2 pieces for 1 dock. The hook end is for connecting either with the incoming or the outgoing track segment and the no-hook blunt end is for connecting either the in-coming terminal or the out-going terminal of dock. With choices of Male and Female types for different in-coming and out-going orientation combinations, just two pieces of Common adaptors can be physically possible to connect adapt with each kind of existing and new tracks and track features. As the transporter including the moving dock have to connect with the main electric power source of the entire slot track system at any time so as to ensure the motor inside the transporter could move accurately and drive the dock to the proper terminal, common adjusters consists of both ends, which one end could firmly connect with either the incoming or outgoing track segment of the slot track system and another end with built-in spring loaded metal ball joints to ensure it is in good contacts with either the incoming or outgoing terminal of the moving dock to conduct electricity.

Advantage—this connection system is designated to maximize the flexibility for both manufacturers and end users due to the free combination between different platforms of slot car road racing sets included traditional 2D layout, 3D anti-gravity layout with fixed or mechanical movement track features as well as 3D anti-gravity layout with electrical movement track features. Apart from the flexibility consideration, this system could provide a cost effective way to save the manufacturing cost and repair cost of each feature. The snap-fit joint might be damaged or wore out due to frequently assemble and disassemble, as the common adaptor is a small piece with some metallic components and its manufacturing cost is insignificant compared with each motor-driven anti-gravity track features. Players are available to solely change a new common adaptor for fixing performance failures that because of the connection problem. Also, the common adaptor is not only limited to the current generation of new features since the simple design of the common adaptor could be applicable to any further development of any potential track features that strongly related to stability of provision of electric power such as some track features included different gears, cams, shafts plus more than a single stereo motors.

Stopper and Locking Device (FIGS. 18-22)

To hold and restrain the toy object 12 on the dock 222, for example, and guarantee it would not fall off during various motions such as horizontal and vertical movements and rotation, holding and restraining members such as the T-shape guide pin under the chassis of toy object 12, the T-slot on the dock surface and two stoppers 244 and 245 have been introduced as a preferred method. Of course other methods may also provide satisfactory results.

Similar to the applicant's previous invention, the T-shape guide pin and T-slot on dock 222 could hold the toy object 12 and guarantee it would not fall off the dock by any motion of the dock that is perpendicular to the surface of track segment. For example, the dock rotates along the center of track segment. However, as the friction between the T-shape guide pin and T-slot 232 could not be very strong to affect the smoothness of running. Whenever it is necessary to ensure the toy object 12 would not move forward and backward along the T-slot, 2 stoppers 244, 245 may be applied. The stopper 244 located near the front end of the dock is spring-loaded which the guide pin of toy object 12 could press down and get pass the stopper 244 by its momentum, the spring would bring the stopper 244 back to the original position and thus it could hold up the toy object 12 and prevent it moves backward as the spring tension could not be released by a force that apply from another direction. Another stopper 245 near to rear end of the dock is built-in to block the toy object 12 to move forward during the extra-ordinary movements performed by the dock 222. The toy object 12 is stopped and locked on the dock 222. Once the dock 222 completes its motion and lands on the defined position, a mechanical button (namely Button B2 below description for Motor Activation Circuit) located at the edge of the dock 222 would be pressed by the common adjuster 246 at the outgoing terminal, or otherwise, a mechanical button located at the edge of the common adjuster at the outgoing would be pressed by the dock, and thus the stopper at the rear end would be released and then the toy object 12 is free to move forward to get away from the feature.

The invention shows the mechanism to fix and locate any form of toy object 12 on the dock during various presentations of movements. The innovation is not just limited to a system that combines of T-shape guide pin, T-slot on dock surface and mechanical and spring-loaded stoppers. Any further mechanical, electrical and/or magnetic innovations which perform similar function should be under protection.

The above stopper and locking device is suitable for all transporters 10, 110, 210, 310 disclosed above.

Motor Activation Circuit (FIGS. 15-17)

In case of the transporter driven by motor, the following demonstrate an example of the circuit setting.

The following explains how can motor driven dock start off the movement, move to the desired position and let the toy object 12 to run away from the dock and how can the motor run reversely to drive the dock back to original position to complete a cycle of movement. The description below is generally applicable to all transporters 10, 110, 210, 310, and not limited to the examples herein described, however, some variance on the positions of buttons and definition of a complete movement cycle may take place in different designs of transporter. For example, mechanical devices of cross-flyer 110, in our example, are built on the supporting frame 119 instead of building on the dock 122. And a complete movement cycle for an Electric Tower 310 is expressed in 90°, whereas that for a Cross-flyer 110 is 180°.

The motor M inside each of the transporter of the present invention has two kinds of motion, either running clockwise or anti-clockwise, could be expressed by the docks in different forms of moving pathway such as moving from upper position to lower position or moving from left point to right point crossing the air. Clockwise and anti-clockwise motions of motor M are controlled by one electric circuit and two groups of mechanical devices on the dock. The first group of mechanical device is a push button (named button A) which in some of our examples are built on the surface of the dock and is linked with the circuit of motor; and the second group consists of 2 to 3 buttons (button A and the button located at the incoming terminal, namely button B1, and or the button located at the outgoing terminal of the dock, namely button B2). The function of button B2 as a release of stopper has been previously described in the section of stopper and locking device, button B1 and B2 are also linked to the circuit of motor to control the direction of movement of motor M inside each transporter.

Staring from original position, prior to arrival of toy object 12 (stage1, FIG. 15), the button A and B2 are opened and the button B1 is being pressed by the in-coming common adjuster at the entrance position of the transporter. At this point, the circuit of the motor is disconnected. While the toy object 12 enters and lands on the dock (stage 2, FIG. 16), the button A would be pressed by its weight or momentum, the circuit of the motor is connected with the main power, the motor M would start to drive the dock to move. Once the dock leaves the in-coming common adjuster (stage 3), button B1 will be released and toy object 12 on the dock surface would be disconnected with the main power source and the motor M will continue the movement to bring the toy object 12 to the destination point of the moving pathway.

While the dock lands on the destination point (stage 4, FIG. 17), button B2 would be pressed by the out-going common adjuster. At this moment, the circuit connected with the motor M is disconnected, therefore the movement of the dock would be stopped and the toy object 12 would be re-connected with the power source and the stopper of the toy object 12 would be released, thus the toy object 12 could freely move away from the dock. After the toy object 12 moving out from the dock (stage 5), the button A on the dock surface would be released; meanwhile, the direction of the current flow of the circuit inside the transporter will be opposite to that of the circuit during the dock bring the toy object 12 across the interruption, therefore, the motor M would start to move reversely to drive the dock back to its starting point.

Right after the dock move away from the out-going common adjuster (stage 6), all buttons A, B1 and B2 have been released and the motor M would keep the movement until the dock backs to its start point, button B1 will be again pressed by the in-coming common adjuster, the motor M would stop and the entire system would back to origin situation to wait for next toy object 12 entrance (stage 7, FIG. 15).

Connection and Disconnection of the Circuit Inside the Transporter and the Main Power Source

-   1. Before the arrival of toy object 12, the button B1 is on and     button A and B2 are off, the circuit inside the transporter would be     temporarily disconnected with the main power source. -   2. When the toy object 12 is landed on the dock surface, the button     A would be pressed on, then the circuit inside the transporter will     be connected to the main power source and it will trigger the     movement of motor. -   3. Once the dock moves away from the incoming position, the dock and     toy object 12 would be disconnected to the main power source and     only button A would be pressed on, both button B1 and B2 are     released. -   4. When the dock arrives to the out-going common adjuster connected     with the out-going track segment, the button B2 would be pressed on     by the common adjuster, the dock and toy object 12 would be     re-connected with the main power source. -   5. As the dock and the toy object 12 are re-connected to the power     source, the toy object 12 could run away from the transporter. Thus,     button A has been released, the direction of the current flow of the     circuit inside the transporter would run reversely. -   6. After the dock moves back from the out-going common adjuster, all     buttons would be released and the motor will continue the movement. -   7. While the dock lands at original position, the button B1 would be     pressed and the other two buttons still release. The circuit of the     transporter will be temporarily disconnected from the main power     source again and the dock stopped and connected with the in-coming     common adjuster.

Each motor driven transporter has its individual circuit inside and independently connected with the main circuit which is jointed by each track segments and the major power supply, of the track system.

Condition of button A, B1 and B2 in different states Stage Condition A B1 B2 Remark 1 Original OFF ON OFF Motor stopped 2 Toy object landed ON ON OFF Motor start to move on the dock 3 The dock is moving ON OFF OFF The dock moves forward across the interruption 4 The dock landed on ON OFF ON Motor stopped terminal 5 The object run away OFF OFF ON Trigger the motor to move reversely 6 The dock moving OFF OFF OFF back 7 The dock landed on OFF ON OFF Motor stopped original Another example of circuit setting illustrated by our Cross-flyer herein:

Condition of button A and B2 in different states A B2 Remark Original OFF ON Motor stopped Toy object landed ON OFF Trigger the motor to move on the dock The dock is OFF OFF The dock move across interruption moving Completion of OFF ON Motor stopped movement

Physical connection between common adjuster, existing track feature and existing track segment: In the developed slot racing system, all past track segments, track features are connected by a snap-fit mechanism which they are consists of a hook and a slot in end of connection. As one end of common adjuster is in hook and slot design so that theoretically every track segment and existing track feature is able to connect with any new innovative motor-driven moving feature.

While there have been described and pointed out fundamental novel features of the invention as applied to a preferred embodiment thereof, it will be understood that various omissions and substitutions and changes, in the form and details of the embodiments illustrated, may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. The invention is not limited by the embodiments described above which are presented as examples only but can be modified in various ways within the scope of protection defined by the appended patent claims. 

1. A motor driven transporter for transporting a moving toy object over an interruption in a slot track system where said interruption is between an incoming track segment and an outgoing track segment, said transporter comprising: a dock having a holding member for holding said toy object on a track surface of said dock and a restraining member for restraining said toy object from moving forward and backward on said dock; and a motor for moving said dock linearly or through an arc of up to 180° between said incoming track segment and said outgoing track segment.
 2. The transporter as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a support structure for supporting said dock to enable movement of said dock relative to said incoming track segment and said outgoing track segment.
 3. The transporter as claimed in claim 2, wherein said support structure comprises a rack and pinion transmission driven by said motor for moving said dock vertically up or down between said incoming track segment and said outgoing track segment.
 4. The transporter as claimed in claim 3, wherein said support structure further comprises a gear transmission driven by said motor for rotating said dock 180° along a longitudinal axis thereof while moving vertically up or down between said incoming track segment and said outgoing track segment.
 5. The transporter as claimed in claim 1, wherein said dock has a central axis and two track segments disposed at two opposite sides thereof, and said dock is rotatable 180° along said central axis by said motor between said incoming track segment and said outgoing track segment.
 6. The transporter as claimed in claim 2, wherein said dock is provided on an arm pivotally connected to said support structure, and said dock is moveable through an arc between said incoming track segment and said outgoing track segment.
 7. The transporter as claimed in claim 6, wherein said dock comprises a convex track surface.
 8. The transporter as claimed in claim 2, wherein said incoming track segment and said outgoing track segment are the same track segment with an incoming track and an outgoing track provided on two opposite sides of said same track segment respectively, and wherein said dock is in the form of a curved platform pivotally connected to said support structure, and has an incoming end and an outgoing end alignable with said incoming track segment and said outgoing track segment respectively.
 9. The transporter as claimed in claim 8, wherein said platform pivots through an arc of 90°.
 10. The transporter as claimed in claim 1, wherein said restraining member comprises a first spring-loaded stopper provided at an incoming end of said dock for restraining backward movement of said toy object after said toy object passes said first spring-loaded stopper.
 11. The transporter as claimed in claim 1, wherein said dock comprises a first button provided at an incoming end of said dock for electrically disconnecting said motor from a power source when said first button is being pressed by said incoming track segment.
 12. The transporter as claimed in claim 1, wherein said dock comprises a trigger for electrically connecting said motor with a power source, such that said motor drives said dock in one direction when said trigger is pressed by said toy object after landing on said dock, and thereafter drives said dock in a reversed direction when said trigger is released by said toy object after said toy object moves away from said dock.
 13. The transporter as claimed in claim 1, wherein said restraining member comprises a second stopper provided at an outgoing end of said dock for restraining forward movement of said toy object after said toy object lands on said dock.
 14. The transporter as claimed in claim 13, wherein said dock comprises a second button provided at said outgoing end of said dock for electrically connecting said toy object with a power source and releasing said second stopper, thereby allowing said toy object to move away from said dock when said dock reaches said outgoing track segment and said second button is pressed by said outgoing track segment.
 15. The transporter as claimed in claim 1, wherein said holding member comprises a T-slot provided on said dock, and a T-shaped guide pin provided on said toy object engageable with said T-slot.
 16. The transporter as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a plurality of common adjusters serving as adapters to facilitate connection of conventional track segments to said dock.
 17. The transporter as claimed in claim 16, wherein a first common adjuster is provided on an incoming end of said dock, and a second common adjuster is provided on an outgoing end of said dock.
 18. The transporter as claimed in claim 2, wherein said support structure is provided with a plurality of common adjusters serving as adapters to facilitate connection of conventional track segments to said dock.
 19. The transporter as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a circuit electrically coupled to said motor for controlling the movement of said dock between said incoming track segment and said outgoing track segment.
 20. The transporter as claimed in claim 2, wherein said motor is provided in said support structure. 